There probably isn't a garment more closely associated with the summer than the classic denim short. Whether you're into the ultra-mini, figure-hugging Daisy Dukes, or the oversized boyfriend 'jorts' that have dominated the social media trend cycle for the past six months – there's really no denying their prevalence and timelessness.

As we head into warmer weather (in the southern hemisphere at least), it's time to start thinking about beginning the search for the perfect pair of denim. Some vintage Levi's cut-offs, perhaps? Maybe some classic, relaxed-fit indigos are more your style? Whatever your prerogative, budget or style, we've got you covered with our comprehensive guide to the best denim shorts for summer, below.

Best classic denim shorts

If what you're looking for is a stock-standard, no-frills-attached, flattering denim short that will go with just about anything, then these are the selects for you. Straight-down-the-line indigo washes with no heavy distressing or embellishing – the kind that will compliment just about any summer ensemble you dare to throw on. We can't go past a standard pair of ABRAND A Carrie Shorts  in Georgia, or ASSEMBLY LABEL's Vintage Denim Shorts. For a slightly more relaxed fit, we're loving the DISSH Piper Blue Denim Shorts, and the GRLFRND Charlie Low Rise Baggy Cut Offs.

Best long denim shorts (jorts)

The jort has taken the fashionable denizens of social media by storm in recent months, and it seems like you can't go anywhere in Australia without catching a pair on the streets or at a bar – usually pared with a cardigan, crop top, baseball cap or a pair of biker boots. We're loving and the Elka Collective Odin Shorts for a polished, medium wash. For something a little more worn, we're being called to GANNI's Blue Heavy Denim Shorts, or Acne Studios' Blue Faded Denim Shorts.

Best white denim shorts

The white denim short is a summertime affair – perfect for sitting wharf-side, or for strolling the beach. They come in just as many silhouettes and styles as their indigo counterparts, but are a great way to elevate the casual appeal of the everyday denim look. For a more tailored look, we love the cream shade of DISSH's Bambi Cream Bermuda Denim Shorts, or these Posse Brody Shorts in Vintage White. For something with a little more edge, we're looking to KSUBI for their Rise N Hi Sugar Rush Short, but for the ultimate classic pair of white denim, we'd recommend the AGOLDE Parker Long Clean Denim Shorts.

Best black denim shorts

Black denim shorts offer a day-to-night option for the warmer months of the year. While they might still be associated in your mind with the pop punk days of your youth, there are so many fresh and contemporary silhouettes on the market these days – you'll hardly find yourself reminiscing. These Neuw Denim Ryder Shorts and ROLLA's Super Mirage Shorts both offer a sleek, modern take on the look, and we can't go past the elegance of these AGOLDE Long Clean Denim Shorts Or for something a little different, why not try Christopher Esber's Deconstructed Denim Jorts?

Best cut-off denim shorts

The humble cut-off denim short is about as timeless as it gets – a staple in most peoples' wardrobes from the time they're old enough to walk. Durable, comfortable and fashionable; they'll take you through the brunt of summer without too much trouble – no careful handling necessary. This season we're loving MOTHER's Dodger Distressed Denim Shorts, Rag & Bone's Vintage Cut Off Shorts in Noelle, and FRAME's Le Brigette Short in Soap. AGOLDE's Parker Vintage Cut Offs are shredded with a heavy hand for a worn look, but if you're looking for something a little more daring, we'd recommend Isabel Marant's Eneidao Fringed Denim Shorts.

Best designer denim shorts

When it comes to designer and luxury denim, there are two roads you can travel down. We have the quiet luxury route – seeking out brands and garments crafted with the finest materials and an attentive hand, but which only scream luxury to the well-trained eye. For you, we'd suggest something along the lines of the KHAITE Indigo Bacalo Denim Shorts, or the Bottega Veneta Medium Washed Denim Shorts. The other route is to go for a bolder, statement pair of denim shorts from a luxury brand – like the Y2K dream that are these MUGLER Panelled Denim Shorts, or this subtly embellished Balmain Distressed Denim Shorts.

Best denim shorts on a budget

Not everyone is ready to drop hundreds of dollars on a pair of denim shorts – especially if you're the adventurous type, planning to spend your summer camping, hiking, and otherwise testing the limits of your garments. A pair of denim shorts for you isn't about an investment, except in the comfort and durability of their wear. But even when you're on a budget, you still want to look good. We've been loving COTTON ON's Super Baggy Denim Jorts (which come in four different colour ways for all of your summer needs), as well as their Original Cut Off Denim Shorts for an easy, wear-with-anything style. Glassons have also long been purveyors of affordable, on-trend denim styles -- take their Mid Rise Denim Mini Short, for example. And for something that falls in the middle of the price range, we can't go past COS' High Rise Denim Shorts in light blue.